April in Southeast Asia is a time of vibrant celebration as Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar mark their local New Year. Commonly known as the ‘water festival’, this three-day event is steeped in tradition and communal joy- as well as a lot of water.
The festival is three days, 13-15 April, however most countries extend the holiday period for 5-7 days. During this time, there are a number of traditions around spiritual and social activities, the most famous of which being the throwing of water. Originally a gesture of respect towards elders, the practice of water pouring has transformed into playful water fights, symbolising refreshment and renewal amidst the April heat.
While the water festival presents a special glimpse into local culture, for travellers, this time can also present unique challenges beyond just the possibilities of getting wet! The festivities may lead to closed restaurants and cultural sites, while the surge in domestic travel limits accommodation and transport options.
Despite these hurdles, the festival remains a captivating experience, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Southeast Asia during its most animated — and wet — season.
Challenges of new year travel:
- Water!: Most indoor spaces, especially hotels, are usually splash-free zones but once outside everyone, regardless of age, gender and nationality, is fair game when the water throwing begins.
- Limited hotels & transportation: The holiday brings a spike in domestic travel as local residents go on holiday within their own country and abroad. As a result, airports are crowded, hotel availability is limited and domestic transportation is in high demand.
- Closed restaurants & attractions: During the local new year, some businesses close down to enjoy the holiday and give staff time off. This leads to the closure of many restaurants, museums, attractions and other businesses.
Suggestions for travelling in the new year:
- Book early: Due to the spike in domestic travel during the new year, it is highly recommended to book early to ensure preferred hotels and transportation options are available.
- Plan wisely: In rural towns and at beach resorts, the celebrations are smaller and less crowded. For travellers who wish to avoid the new year festivities, plan the journey such that urban areas are avoided during the peak of the holiday. As well, EXO can advise on closures related to certain sites or restaurants to ensure
- Dress for splashing: Expect to get wet! When going outside, we suggest travellers wear light cotton clothes that will dry quickly and wear sport shoes to avoid slipping.
- Leave phones and valuables behind: It is recommended to leave phones and cameras at the hotel or buy a good-quality waterproof bag. Although theft is rare, due to the large crowds, it is also recommended to leave jewellery and other valuables behind as an added precaution.
- Be patient: Traffic jams are common during the New Year and service may be slower than usual, with restaurants and hotels often understaffed as employees take time off to celebrate.
- Join in!: Embrace the experience of travelling during the local new year! Grab a bucket or squirt gun and join the crowds or head to a local pagoda to witness a more traditional side of the holiday.
Where to go to join or avoid the festivities?
Laos: Luang Prabang is the most lively and enjoyable place to partake in Pii Mai, the Laos’ new year. For a more serene and quiet holiday EXO recommends more secluded resorts and destinations such as The Nam Khan in Luang Prabang, Nam Kat Yorla Paa in Oudomxay or La Folie Lodge in Champassak. Check out our special Luang Prabang Pii Mai tour
Cambodia: ‘In the past, the popular place of Bon Chol Chhnam (Khmer New Year) was always in Siem Reap province. But, it has changed since last year. The government encouraged each province to set up an event for their province to balance the number of [domestic tourists],’ explains Samphoas from EXO Cambodia. As a result, Siem Reap and Wat Phnom (In Phnom Penh) remain popular places for celebrating, while beaches and rural provinces feature lighter but still popular festivities. Read more about Khmer New Year here!
Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai and the centres of most towns and islands will be filled with revellers during Songkran. These are some of the most impressive and liveliest celebrations in the region, ideal for those who want to dive right into the festivities! And while celebrations do take place throughout the country, beach resorts and rural resorts will offer a quiet- and dry- haven.
EXO Office Closures- 2024: A reminder that our teams will be taking some much deserved time off to celebrate and spend time with family and friends. Our offices will be closed as follows:
- EXO Cambodia: 13-16 April 2024
- EXO Laos: 12- 18 April 2024
- EXO Thailand: 8 April and 12-16 April 2024
For urgent matters regarding travellers on the ground during these periods, please reach out to our 24/7 Customer Care lines: https://www.exotravel.com/agent-hub/customer-care
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